Mom’s Best Taco Salad is a delightful mix of savory ground beef, crisp vegetables, and zesty taco seasoning. This recipe delivers a comforting meal with minimal effort, making it a staple in the weekly dinner rotation. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this taco salad offers both convenience and taste wrapped in one delicious package.
Reminiscing about this recipe brings me back to childhood Sunday dinners at Mom’s house, where vibrant flavors and laughter filled the air. She would let me help by adding the toppings, turning meal prep into a family activity that we all cherished. This Taco Salad, with its crispy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and hearty beef, has been a beloved tradition spanning generations. It’s one of those recipes that tastes like home.
Why You’ll Love This “Mom’s Best Taco Salad” Recipe
– Quick and easy: Spend less time cooking and more time enjoying with a preparation that takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish.
– Flavorful and refreshing: The combination of sautéed beef, fresh vegetables, and traditional taco seasonings ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
– Versatile: Customize with various toppings and dressings to suit any dietary preference or to shake things up a little.
– Family-friendly: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied.
Ingredient Notes
– Ground beef: The base of the salad, which provides a rich and hearty flavor. Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option.
– Onion: Chopped onion is sautéed with the beef to add a slight sweetness and depth of flavor.
– Taco seasoning: This brings the quintessential Mexican flavor to the dish. You can use a store-bought packet or make your own blend with common spices.
– Shredded lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness; iceberg or romaine works best.
– Tomato: Chopped tomato introduces a moist, sweet profile.
– Cucumber: Provides a crisp texture and a balance to the flavors.
– Shredded cheese: Adds a melty, creamy texture. Choose a variety like cheddar or a Mexican blend.
– Salsa and sour cream: Used for garnishing, they add a tangy and creamy finish respectively.
How to Make Mom’s Best Taco Salad Recipe
– Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Onion
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, sautéing until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain any excess fat for a lighter salad.
– Step 2: Season the Beef
Stir in the taco seasoning with the beef and onion mixture, continuing to cook for another 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
– Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base
Place shredded lettuce in individual serving bowls or a large serving dish as the base of the salad.
– Step 4: Add Vegetables and Beef
Top the lettuce with chopped cucumber, tomato, and the seasoned beef and onion mixture.
– Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and add a dollop of salsa and sour cream before serving. Mix everything together just before eating to enjoy the burst of flavors.
Storage Options
To maintain the freshness and texture of the Taco Salad, store the ingredients separately in airtight containers. The prepared beef can be refrigerated for up to three days. Lettuce, cheese, and chopped vegetables are best consumed within two days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked seasoned beef for up to a month.
Variations and Substitutions
– Protein: Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian ground meat substitute.
– Spice: Adjust the heat by adding chopped jalapenos to the beef or a spicy salsa.
– Dressing: Use a lime and cilantro dressing instead of sour cream for a zesty twist.
– Low-carb option: Replace half the lettuce with mixed greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
What to Serve With Mom’s Best Taco Salad
– Corn Chips: Adds a crunchy texture and complements the flavors of the taco salad.
– Guacamole: A side of guacamole brings a creamy, rich flavor enhancing the overall dish.
– Rice: Serve alongside Mexican rice for a fuller meal.
– Margaritas: Pair with a refreshing margarita for a festive dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prep the ingredients in advance but assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture and freshness.
– How can I make this salad healthier?
Opt for lean meats, increase the amount of vegetables, and use a lighter dressing option.
– Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Absolutely, it’s easy to scale up and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
– What are some other garnishes I can add?
Consider adding olives, green onions, or chopped bell peppers for additional color and flavor.
By following this recipe, expect a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and enjoyable for everyone around your table. The blend of savory, fresh, and creamy textures along with the robust seasoning makes Mom’s Best Taco Salad a memorable dish. For a delightful finish, serve this salad with fresh lime wedges and additional salsa for added zest.
Mom's Best Taco Salad
Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting Board
- Individual serving bowls
- Large serving dish
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 head shredded lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes chopped
- 1 medium cucumber
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- salsa
- sour cream
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté ground beef and chopped onion until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes.
- Place shredded lettuce in individual serving bowls or a large dish.
- Top the lettuce with cucumber, tomatoes, and seasoned beef mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and add salsa and sour cream. Mix before serving.